Explore Istanbul’s captivating past on this full-day tour showcasing the city’s iconic Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks. From the stunning Blue Mosque to the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia, guests will discover the rich history that shaped this vibrant metropolis. With priority skip-the-line access and a delicious Turkish lunch included, this guided experience promises an enriching journey through Istanbul’s treasured relics. History enthusiasts won’t want to miss the chance to uncover the stories that lie within these remarkable sites.

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Key Points

This comprehensive 7-hour tour offers a deep exploration of Istanbul’s historical and cultural landmarks, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.
The tour includes guided visits, priority skip-the-line access, and a full-course Turkish lunch, providing an efficient and immersive experience.
The itinerary highlights the architectural and cultural significance of each site, with professional licensed guides sharing in-depth insights.
Accessibility and logistical considerations are noted, such as mobility restrictions, renovation impacts, and closure days, to help plan the visit accordingly.
The tour has received an overall rating of 4.5/5 from previous guests, who praised the quality of the guides and the tour’s comprehensive nature.

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Tour Overview

This Istanbul Byzantine & Ottoman tour offers a comprehensive 7-hour exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural landmarks.

Priced from $64 per person, it covers key sites like the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar.

With guided tours in English and Japanese, it provides priority skip-the-line access and a full-course Turkish lunch.

Pickup from 15 hotels is included.

While the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, it boasts an impressive 4.5/5 rating from previous guests who praised the guide and organization.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a guided exploration of the iconic Sultan Ahmed Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, where visitors spend 45 minutes admiring its renowned Iznik tiles and six minarets.

Next, the group visits the magnificent Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel from the Byzantine era, for a guided tour lasting an hour.

The group visits the magnificent Hagia Sophia, an architectural marvel from the Byzantine era, for a guided tour lasting an hour.

The tour then moves to Sultanahmet Square for a 25-minute guided walk.

The highlight is a 2-hour guided tour of the opulent Topkapi Palace, the former imperial residence.

Finally, the tour concludes with a guided visit to the bustling Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest covered markets.

Tour Features

The tour features a range of inclusions to enhance the overall experience. Visitors are provided with transportation via a luxury air-conditioned minibus, along with the services of a professional licensed guide. A full course lunch at a local Turkish restaurant is included, ensuring a taste of the region’s cuisine. Plus, the tour offers skip-the-line access to Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, allowing guests to bypass the queues and maximize their time at these iconic attractions. Local taxes are also covered in the tour price, offering a seamless and convenient experience.

| Tour Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Transportation | Pickup from hotels/port via luxury air-conditioned minibus |

| Guide | Professional licensed guide |

| Lunch | Full course lunch at a local Turkish restaurant |

| Skip-the-Line Access | Priority entry at Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia |

| Local Taxes | Included in the tour price |

Important Information

Certain access restrictions may apply, as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia could be closed during prayer times and special events.

Plus, parts of the Blue Mosque are currently under renovation.

Visitors should also be aware that the Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays.

This tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments, as it involves significant walking and standing.

However, the tour does provide skip-the-line access to Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia, ensuring a more efficient and enjoyable experience for participants.

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Customer Reviews

Customers have provided largely positive reviews for this Istanbul: Full Day – Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour. The tour has an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 6 reviews. Customers praised the quality of the guide and the organization of the tour. Some noted that certain sites, like the Blue Mosque and the Grand Bazaar, were undergoing renovation, which impacted the experience. The table below showcases the range of customer sentiments:

| Rating | Percentage |

| —— | ———- |

| 5 stars | 67% |

| 4 stars | 17% |

| 3 stars | 16% |

| 2 stars | 0% |

| 1 star | 0% |

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Getting to the Tour

One of the key features of this Istanbul: Full Day – Byzantine & Ottoman Relics Tour is the included pickup service from over 15 hotel locations across the city.

This convenient transportation option ensures guests can start their day of sightseeing without the hassle of navigating public transit or driving themselves. The air-conditioned minibuses provide a comfortable ride to the first stop, Sultan Ahmed Mosque.

This pickup service is particularly helpful for travelers unfamiliar with Istanbul’s layout, allowing them to focus on experiencing the city’s historic sites with their knowledgeable guide.

What to Expect

As visitors embark on this comprehensive Istanbul tour, they’ll be immersed in the city’s captivating Byzantine and Ottoman history.

The tour begins with a guided visit to the iconic Blue Mosque, renowned for its intricate Iznik tiles and six minarets.

Next, they’ll explore the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a former Byzantine church and Ottoman mosque, now a museum showcasing its awe-inspiring architecture.

The journey continues to the Topkapi Palace, the former imperial residence, and the Grand Bazaar, one of the world’s oldest covered markets.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy a full-course Turkish lunch and skip-the-line access at select sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed at the Tour Sites?

Photography is generally allowed at the tour sites, though some restrictions may apply. Guests should check with their guide for specific policies at each location to ensure they can capture the sights during the tour.

What Should I Bring on the Tour?

Visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a small daypack, snacks, and any necessary medications. It’s also a good idea to bring cash for optional purchases at the Grand Bazaar.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements?

There are dress code requirements for this tour. Visitors should wear modest attire that covers the shoulders and knees. Avoiding sleeveless shirts, shorts, and miniskirts is recommended to respect the cultural and religious sites visited.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour can’t be customized, but it offers a rundown of Istanbul’s key Byzantine and Ottoman landmarks. Travelers should check access restrictions and ensure they meet the dress code requirements before the tour.

How Many People Are Typically in the Tour Group?

The tour group size typically ranges from small, intimate groups to larger parties, but the exact number can vary. The tour provider aims to offer a personalized experience while accommodating different group sizes.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive Istanbul tour allows visitors to enjoy the city’s captivating Byzantine and Ottoman history. From the stunning Blue Mosque to the majestic Hagia Sophia, guests will witness architectural wonders while enjoying priority access and a delightful Turkish lunch. Guided by knowledgeable professionals, this tour offers an enriching and seamless experience for history enthusiasts seeking to explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.